He’s been something of an institution on American TV screens for over half a century but this week Bob Barker ended his career with the final appearance as host of long-running game show The Price is Right.
The 83 year old Barker won 17 Emmy Awards in a glittering career and its estimated that during his time on the Price is right he gave away approximately £100 in prizes.
In an emotional farewell from the longest running game show in television history Barker said “I thank you for inviting me into your homes for more than 50 years,"
The show will be broadcast on June 15th in the states and the host channel CBS are anticipating unprecedented viewer ship figures as viewers across the country bid to catch a last glimpse of the TV legend.
Writing on the official Price is right website Barker explained the reasons for his departure. He said “I will be 83 years old on December 12 and I’ve decided to retire while I’m still young! I’ve gone on and on and on to this ancient age because I’ve enjoyed it and I’m going to miss it. I’m just reaching the age where the constant effort to be there and do the show physically is a lot for me. I might be able to do the show for another year but better to leave a year too soon than a year too late.”
In his final show Barker took the stage to a shower of confetti and a standing ovation.
Fans traveled from across the US and Canada to the CBS studio in Los Angeles to see the stalwart's final appearance.
The host, a prominent animal rights supporter, signed off with his usual line: "Help control the pet population, have your pets spayed or neutered. Goodbye everybody."
Barker began his national TV career in 1956 as host of another long-running game show, NBC's popular Truth or Consequences.
"This is a very emotional time for me," Barker said at a press conference.
"This is the first time since I was 21 years old that I didn't have a show. I'm looking forward to being bored."
He said the key to his success was listening. "When I talk with someone, I listen," he said. "And I think if you do, you're going to find little nuggets of gold to go with."
The success of the Price is right game show has taken on different guises over the years. Currently UK online gaming site Getminted.com features an online Price is Right game.
